Seven Maple Leafs standouts at the 2026 Prospect Challenge

Luke Haymes

I thought Luke Haymes was the Maple Leafs’ most complete forward in the two games. He was a constant shooting threat, directing pucks on net at a high volume and even scored off a point shot in the third period against the Senators to tie it up. However, it was his ability to excel in all situations that continues to impress me. He was relied upon to produce and get results on both sides of the puck and he did. Head coach Steve Sullivan was impressed on how he was able to handle that responsibility. He looked steady in his call-up with the Maple Leafs and could push for a spot. 

Vinny Borgesi

I really liked Vinni Borgesi in these games. He showed great energy, pace, speed and skill, especially when he built up a burst of speed through the neutral zone. At both five-on-five and on the power play, he was moving the puck quickly and effectively and did a great job to keep pucks alive at the blue line. He also made some smart and quick plays to safely get the puck out of his zone, be it with an outlet or breakout play. He had a goal in the second game against the Jets as he found and attacked the open ice very well with his agility and creativity with his playmaking vision. 

Landon Sim

Landon Sim was an absolute force on the ice. He was quickly engaged on the forecheck and if there was any chance to make a hit, he did just that. He was physical and even dropped the gloves in the first game. Aside from the heavy style of play he’s known for, he did show some offensive upside, driving the middle well, getting some decent looks on net and winning puck races to regain control. He’s an agitator and played that role perfectly and it’s what’s getting him a lot of attention. 

Patriks Plumins

Patriks Plumins play in his start against the Jets is why I’m very high on him as a goaltending prospect. He faced a high number and quality shots, as he stood tall in the crease. He tracked the puck very well, showed great athleticism and even when it got a little dicey, he didn’t panic and stayed composed in the crease. He took angles away very well and made a number of big- time saves in the win against the Jets.

Hayes Hundley

Another surprising player from this past weekend, Hayes Hundley made his presence felt on both sides of the puck. He found the scoresheet often, especially against the Jets where he got the offense going with the first goal of the game along with two assists. He was showing great compete when challenging puck carriers and positioning within his own end. He got into one game with the Marlies last season after signing his entry-level contract and could be getting more of a role after his play at the showdown.

Other Standouts : Harry Nansi, Miroslav Holinka, Alexander Bilecki, Sawyer Boulton